Talking Across Difference

An Invitation to Connect

Talking Across Difference promotes meaningful civic dialogue among friends, faculty, and staff at Rutgers—New Brunswick, from the classroom to the conference room. This initiative supports workshops throughout the academic year designed to equip participants with the skills to engage thoughtfully in discussions regarding polarizing issues and offers grant funds to assist our communities in designing programs that inspire meaningful engagement and open conversation.

Applications are now closed for the 2026-2027 Cohort.

Talking Across Difference is a paid opportunity that allows you to:
- Build skills for navigating difficult conversations
- Plan and facilitate Talking Across Difference programs for Rutgers students
- Create videos and graphics for social media and websites
- Research trends in civil discourse and campus climate
- Represent the initiative at campus and community events
- Support faculty and staff in facilitating challenging conversations
- Join a cohort of student leaders advancing dialogue across difference
Student Fellows are expected to commit to the full academic year (August - May) with limited approved exceptions. Fellows will receive a stipend of $3,000.00 (total) and 3 academic credits per semester for their participation.
- Current Rutgers – New Brunswick undergraduate student (incoming first-years not eligible)
- Available for in‑person programming on campus and occasional off‑campus events
- Willing to facilitate small‑group discussions after training, with supervision
- Available for in‑person training, August 24–28, 2026
- Experience with Canva, social media, and GetInvolved
- Able to attend weekly meetings:
  - In person: Tuesdays, 2:00–3:20 p.m. (Alexander Library – The Hatchery)
  - Zoom: Fridays, 2:00–3:20 p.m.
To view more information about the program and access the application, please visit this site.
NOTE: The application for the 2026-2027 Academic Year is now closed.